One Direction: This is Us Review

Hi. My name is Jessica Johannsen. I am 27 years old, and, I am a “Directioner.” Okay, now that’s out of the way.

On a Saturday afternoon a few weeks ago, I attended a screening of the new One Direction movie, “This is Us”, and found to be the oldest person in attendance other than the mothers of the many teen-aged girls. Their enthusiasm was infectious, however, and it was adorable to behold the mighty power of the boy band first hand.

Unlike many other recent 3D Concert movies, “This is Us” has a bit more of a documentary feel to it. Directed by Morgan Spurlock (Super Size Me), the film focuses on the sky-rocketed journey of the five young Brits, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlinson. Starting with their time on the UK version of the X Factor, judge Simon Cowell is interviewed, and shares in his own bewilderment of how quickly and intensely 1D rose to such enormous fame. We also get to see a glimpse into the “before they were famous” lives of the boys, with many interviews with family and people who had known the boys. And yes, there is plenty of 3D concert footage to make anyone swoon a bit.

The movie, truly at its core, is a giant love letter to the fans who supported the band towards their quick rise to stardom. It becomes sentimental at times, especially in a scene where band member Zayn Malik is able to purchase his mother a brand new home. It’s endearing, funny, and cute, most notably in scenes where the boys take part in Monkees-esque pranks and shenanigans.

Overall, I thought the movie was fun, interesting, and charming. “This is It” arrives in theaters this Friday in Real 3D. And yes, you get a chance to see Harry Styles get his pants pulled down on stage in 3D.